How to Book Multi-City Flights in the U.S. for Less (Because Round Trips Are So 2008)

Multi-city trips in the U.S. can be cheaper and more fun — if you book them the right way. Here’s how to do it.

1. What’s a Multi-City Flight?

- You visit multiple cities on one trip
- Example: LAX → Austin → NYC → back home
- Booked as one itinerary vs separate one-way tickets

2. Why Do It?

- Often cheaper than separate flights
- Great for cross-country adventures
- Easier to manage as one booking
- More flexible return options

3. Use the Right Tools

Search with:
- Google Flights
- Kayak
- Skyscanner
- Momondo
- ITA Matrix (for advanced users)

Use the “multi-city” or “add flight” option.

4. Consider Booking Legs Separately

Sometimes cheaper with budget airlines:
- Southwest
- Spirit
- Allegiant
- JetBlue

Just watch baggage fees and tight transfer times.

5. Try Hidden City Ticketing

Use Skiplagged for:
- Booking flights where your real destination is the layover
- Never check bags
- Use sparingly — airlines don’t like it

6. Mix Airlines Carefully

Mixing can save money but adds risk. If you do:
- Leave long layovers
- Carry-on only
- Stick with alliance partners where possible

7. Open-Jaw = Bonus Savings

Example:
- Fly to Chicago
- Road trip to Nashville
- Fly home from there

Use the “multi-city” tool or book two one-ways.

8. Redeem Miles Smartly

Some point programs allow stopovers or multi-city as one award:
- Chase Ultimate Rewards
- Amex Membership Rewards
- Capital One Miles
- Aeroplan (stopovers for 5,000 points)

Check rules per airline.

9. Flexible Dates = Big Savings

- Avoid weekends
- Use calendar view to compare fares
- Be open to flying midweek

Search in incognito mode to avoid price hikes.

10. Final Word

Multi-city flights take more effort — but pay off in experience and savings. Use the tools, plan smart, and see more of the U.S. without spending a fortune.